The University of Santo Tomas is no stranger to hosting grand events: from four Papal visits to hosting of royalties from Spain to its very own annual Paskuhan. Still, the oldest Catholic university in Asia remains excited to host the UAAP Season 79, an event its community takes seriously.

And amid some major tweaks in the opening ceremonies, the “Tigers” look forward to the opening of the major sporting event.

Former UAAP MVP and a part of the Growling Tigers dynasty team in the 90s, coach Chris Cantonjos, said the management’s decision to separate the opening games from the opening ceremonies will lessen the pressure for all universities as they will have more time for the opening traditions.

The Yellow Jackets themselves have a big role come September 3 when the 4-century-old university opens its gates to the other seven competing schools, a rare occasion considering how tight security is in the campus on normal days.

Sporting their iconic shaved hairs, the drummers are tasked to lead and play all of the UAAP universities’ cheer, so expect to hear some “Animo!” and “One Big Fight!” in Espanya in the opening ceremonies.

Meanwhile, having served the Royal and Pontifical university for 20 years, security personnel Mario Abrenica said he’s seen it all but he’s still excited as it is the first time UST will host the opening ceremonies inside the campus.

On what the visitors should expect when they enter the Tigers’ lair, Abrenica simply said: “Maraming magagandang bagay sa UST, maraming mamamangha.”